Difference Makers
UM-Dearborn Difference Makers are at the forefront of their fields. They’re improving the lives of others and making an impact on campus and in our local communities.
Neam Alazawi couldn’t wait to start making a difference on campus.
In fact, she hadn’t officially decided to attend University of Michigan-Dearborn when she first began to shape the transfer student experience.
During the summer of 2011, Neam worked with a group of students to design the Honors Transfer Innovators Program (HTI). The program—one of only a few in the nation— is a project-based honors organization specifically for transfer students.
“I truly enjoy creating opportunities for cultural enrichment and promoting social and local responsibilities for transfer students,” she said. “HTI helps transfer students achieve their academic potential while they develop into responsible citizens and leaders.”
HTI is just one way Neam works to make sure transfer students succeed at UM-Dearborn.
She’s also president of the university’s Tau Sigma transfer honors society chapter.
“Neam has served in two very important leadership positions on campus, both for the benefit of transfer students on our campus,” said Christopher Tremblay, assistant vice chancellor for enrollment management.
Her leadership skills have taken her across the country, presenting at conferences on behalf of both Tau Sigma and HTI.
Beyond her involvement with transfer student organizations, Neam is a supplemental instructor (SI) for general and organic chemistry and has volunteered in the community with the English Language Institute, helping new immigrants sharpen their language skills.
That sense of community will stay with Neam as she plans for the future. As she starts to look at medical schools, she’ll focus on universities that have a history rich in community involvement.
“I see myself giving back to my community not only with my work, but with my education too,” she said.
Her fascination with science began at a young age. And she’s seen that interest blossom while working toward her degree at UM-Dearborn.
“Having the opportunity to do research in a biochemistry lab with one of the great professors on campus made me value education even more,” she said. “Dr. Marilee Benore not only helped me understand many scientific theories, but also introduced me to other professors and community partners who have provided me with support and guidance.”
